Camping Checklist - Spring, Summer, Fall

Camping Checklist - Spring, Summer, Fall

The following is for a standard overnight outing. For longer trips make logical adjustments (more clothing, different backpack/bag, more food/snacks, etc.) 

 

Shelter

(pack sleeping bag and clothing in waterproof/heavy-duty garbage bags inside your pack to keep them dry!)

  • Backpack/bag (water-resistant)
  • Tent, tarp, or other shelter
  • Sleeping pad (appropriate for overnight temperature forecast)
  • Sleeping bag (appropriate for overnight temperature forecast)
  • Sleeping bag liner or blanket (if necessary for temperature)
  • Waterproof stuff-sack (or garbage/compactor bag) for sleeping bag
  • Umbrella, poncho, rain suit
Clothing
  • 2x Underwear (wear one / pack one)
  • 2x Long-sleeved shirts
  • Long pants & belt
  • Shorts and/or swimming suit
  • Middle layer(s) (sweatshirt, sweater, hoodie, light jacket)
  • 2x Socks (wear one / pack one)
  • Sturdy trail shoes or boots (broken-in)
  • Jacket (with a hood or bring a hat)
  • Hat for sun/rain protection
  • Rain gear, poncho, umbrella
  • 2+ bandanas

Water & Food

  • Water bottle (1 Liter) x2 when the trip includes hiking
  • Mess kit (plate/bowl/cup/fork/spoon)
  • Necessary cookware and utensils to make your portion of meals
  • Stove or clear plans for campfire cooking or other method
  • Food items for one full day longer than planned length of outing
  • High-calorie snacks
Health
  • Personal first aid kit (PFAK)
  • Medications
  • Toothbrush/toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Lip balm
  • Trowel/TP/Sanitizer

Tools

    • Tight Spot Real-Time Guide for Wilderness Survival
    • Knife/multitool
    • Axe/hatchet
    • Saw
    • Headlamp or flashlight (with spare or fresh batteries)
    • Ferro rod and/or matches in a waterproof container
    • Garbage bags
    • Ziploc bags
    • Compass and map of destination area
    • Sunglasses & case
    • Pen/pencil & notebook
    • 25+′ of cordage (paracord, bank line, etc.)
    • Whistle
    • Mobile Phone with offline maps of destination
    • Battery bank and charging cords for phone/watch

     (Updated 20231218)

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